the Birstall post Y O U R
C O M M U N I T Y
FEBRUARY 2017
N E W S P A P E R
www.birstallpost.co.uk
No. 403
Museum will double visitor numbers THESE ARE the latest images of the £18 million railway museum that will be built at the Leicester North station of the GCR. The museum is expected to double the number of visitors to the GCR from 130,000 annually to 250,000 and contribute £44million to the local economy. The building, designed by architectural practice Wilkinson Eyre, will house locomotives from the collec-
Street lights on FIVE STREET lights on Sibson Road will be returned to all night operation following a spate of burglaries in December. Eight businesses on Sibson Road were burgled in a single night on DecemContinued on page 2
Electrician Registered part P
Pic: a view of the museum from the Station Road bridge
tion at the National Railway Museum in York.
The new building will be constructed opposite the existing Leicester North station building, which will be retained. It will have three two-storey exhibition halls and a glass wall will allow visitors arriving by train to see into the museum. Andy Munro, Chief Executive of the Great Central Railway, said: “This is an important project for the Great Central Railway and represents a new chapter in the 50 year life of the railway. It will help us to further the preservation of the heritage of the GCR whilst at the same time create a new tourist attraction in Leicester, contributing to the ongoing regeneration of the city.” The finished museum will see the construction of an additional platform and a turntable big enough for the largest locomotives. “Like many new designs, our museum will take time to get used to” said Roger Shelley, the museum’s head curator. “It doesn’t try to hide or blend into the landscape – quite the opposite – its elevated position gives spectacular views out to the city and its landmarks. The museum will give us the home we need to shout our story – the significance of the Great Central, the powerful upheaval that railways brought to Leicestershire, the wonder of the workings of railways and locomotives that we all share, and what it means to work on, and with railways, both in the past and today.” He added: “The museum will act as a beacon, visible from a considerable distance – during the day, enhanced by ‘gateway’ locomotives parked on the front concourse, and at night, from the south, with dramatic lighting. It will need many hours of hard work and effort, the support of you as residents, and we are particularly interested to hear from potential volunteers to research themes and objects. “We’re optimistic that the scheme will meet the requirements of the Heritage Lottery Fund, and when finished it will give the Great Central Railway and people of Leicester the first purpose-built railway museum in Britain.” To enquire about volunteering contact museum@gcrrailway.co.uk
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Council votes for no more shelters BIRSTALL PARISH Council has defended its decision not to install any more bus shelters in the village. “There was a long debate, councillors thought about it long and hard” said Parish Council chair Ann Marshall, after councillors voted 7-6 in favour of not installing bus shelters in the parish at its January meeting. “The council was thinking long term, not short term” said Cllr Marshall. Beechfield Avenue resident Ms Rosalind Vincent (75) had asked for the installation of a bus shelter on the A6 Lights continued from page 1 ber 5, between 3 and 4am. Following discussions with the Birstall Police team, the County Council agreed to return an extra five lights along Sibson Road back to all night operation with effect from December 6, 2016. They were previously switched off between midnight and 5.30am. Shona Rattray’s shop, Filigree Heart, was one of those burgled in December. She said: “It’s good news, it’s a positive step, but five on the whole road doesn’t seem that much.”
near the junction with Beechfield Avenue and attended the council meeting, where she spoke to councillors about the need for a shelter before the vote was taken. “I think it was the wrong decision” she said. “Bus shelters are important to people like me who don’t have a car and can’t stand for very long. It’s not nice to condemn people who want to use public transport to stand out in the elements.” After hearing about Ms Vincent’s request for a shelter, Birstall County Councillor Iain Bentley offered to provide a £2000 wooden shelter free, as he had done last year, when the County Council and the Parish Council each paid half the cost of the base for the shelter which was erected on Wanlip Lane. The Parish Council has agreed to maintain that shelter. “How hard can it be to give something away!” said Cllr Bentley. “I just don’t get it. I know it’s not in their remit, but they could provide bus shelters if they wanted to and it’s only the base that’s being
asked for.” Cllr Bentley has provided three bus shelters to East Goscote parish council over the last eight years and says he is unaware of any costs associated with maintenance of them. At their meeting in January, Birstall Parish councillors debated whether or not they should exercise the power to install and maintain bus shelters in the parish. Chair Ann Marshall said that the provision of bus shelters falls within the County Council’s budget and that if Birstall Parish Council provides them, parishioners will be paying twice for the same service. She reminded councillors that provision of a shelter requires permission from the County Council, a public consultation of nearby residents and that licences need to be applied for. The costs of maintenance must be a consideration and there may be a lot of further requests for shelters, she said. Leicester County Council’s position is that it can currently find no money in its budget for bus shelters. Cllr Roy Rollings said that as the Council has already part funded the
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provision of the base of the Wanlip Lane shelter it could do so again, it could consider each request for a shelter on a case by case basis, and that the offer of a second free shelter represented good value for money. Cllr Tony Fowler asked why Cllr Bentley couldn’t donate the bus shelter to the County Council directly and that the main issue was the unknown costs of ongoing maintenance. Councillors voted 7-6 in favour of not exercising the power to install and maintain bus shelters in the Parish. Chair Ann Marshall said: “The County Council is looking to rid itself of providing services – should the parish council be committing itself to providing bus shelters? “We should be giving parishioners things that enhance their lives, like the outdoor gym equipment, trim trail, zip wire, the gala and the Christmas event, that’s what parish councils are about, not services like drains, roads and lighting.” Ms Vincent says she will continue pressing for a bus shelter. She said: “I’m very grateful to all those councillors who voted for the shelter and who supported me. I totally understand the financial constraints that are there and that the money they have they want to use for the benefit of Birstall. It seems to me that if a bus shelter is being donated, and there is already a precedent, they should meet that generosity with a similar generosity of their own.” Decisions made by the council cannot be re-visited for six months and Cllr Bentley has confirmed that should the issue come before the council again his offer to donate a shelter still stands.
Netball sessions NETBALL SESSIONS are on offer to women in Charnwood who are looking to get back into the sport, or try it for the first time. The ‘Netball Now’ sessions have been organised by Charnwood Borough Council, in partnership with Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Sport. They are open to all women over the age of 16 in the borough and are offered on an informal, ‘pay-as-you-go’ basis. The first session is free and then £3 each week. Sessions will be held every Wednesday from January 18, from 7.308.30pm at the Cedars Academy sports hall in Birstall. “Players of all ages and abilities are welcome and coaches will be on hand of offer advice at every session” said a spokesman. For more information, follow Active Charnwood on Facebook and Twitter or contact Rhian Davies at rhian.davies@charnwood.gov.uk or 01509 632534.
THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2017
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New luxury care home opens in Birstall BIRSTALL’S NEW care home officially opened in January. Cedar Mews on Hallam Fields Road organised an opening event on January 26 where guests including the Mayor of Charnwood and community representatives were given a tour of the luxury facility. After welcoming guests General Manager Helen Cooke announced the winner of the care home’s Community Champions scheme - nominations had been sought from Birstall residents for the title - which was won by Betty Howard (85). She said: “I was embarrassed but very honoured, people have been so kind. I love helping people, and it helps me to keep going!” Betty was instrumental in setting up and running the St James Day Care Centre in the Village Hall. Cedar Mews is a 73 bedroom luxury care home that offers 24 hour residential, dementia, convalescent and respite care, including short stay and long-term services. One of the first residents to move in was Peggy Arnold (86) from Market Bosworth. “I’m treated like royalty here, they can’t do enough for you” said Peggy, a widow who felt the time was right to move as her mobility was deteriorating and she was struggling at home. “The general atmosphere is so wonderful, the staff are so caring and it’s genuine care, they don’t pass my room without checking to see if they can do anything for me. Nothing’s too much trouble” she said. Ben Dalgetty, Home Admissions Advisor, said: “We at Cedar Mews are all very excited and privileged to Pic: Resident Peggy Arnold with Helen Cooke, General be opening Manager in Birstall – we have experienced much positivity from the local community and we hope to be a central part of Birstall for many years to come. “Birstall is built on strong community spirit and we believe that our internal spirit mirrors that and we make it a
Pics: (top) Betty Howard cuts the ribbon to open the Cedar Mews care home, helped by General Manager Helen Cooke; a bedroom and some of the communal rooms
priority for our residents to not only feel a part of a community internally but also externally within Birstall. I hope personally, to ensure that Cedar Mews and Birstall have a very close, strong and
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The Hunny Hive Day Nursery has now been open for three months and they would like to thank all their parents who made the decision to place their children within their care. The nursery team has continued to strengthen as Sian Hickey a Senior Manager of the Hunny Nurseries has now appointed an outstanding manager called Nimisha Odedra to conduct the daily running of the nursery. Nimisha has a proven track record of investing in the lives of children and their parents to achieve outstanding results for all and looks forward to meeting the children and parents of Birstall. The garden area has been transformed into a wonderful play area, which features a large sandpit area with its very own boat, a construction area and a mud kitchen. Not forgetting a custom made adventure house and slide. The outdoor area provides a range of rich, varied and imaginative experiences. The children have the opportunity to learn through many first hand experiences of seasons and different weathers as the large AstroTurf play area provides an all-weather surface. As part of the award winning group Hunny Nursery group the Hunny Hive provides an enabling environment and forms positive relationships to enable the children to become self-regulated learners. All rooms offer CCTV and air-conditioning as children's welfare is paramount to the successful running of the day. Alongside this the Hunny Nursery directors are active members within the staff team who hold many years of childcare experience. Rebecca Bill the proprietor holds a Foundation degree in Early Years and has Early Years Professional Status. Tanya Bill is a former outstanding Early Years teacher/coordinator who has many years of teaching experience. The nursery operates an open door policy so welcomes prospective parents to look around and meet the friendly, experienced team. For further details telephone 0116 2672039 Here are a few words from the Hunny Hive parents: “Very friendly staff and great environment for the boys, they love it!”
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Students delight audience with dance show TALENTED DANCERS from the Cedars Academy performed in a charity dance show last month. The show, staged in the Palmer Tomkinson Centre, featured guest performances from children at Highcliffe and Riverside primary schools and raised money for two charities - Birstall BAGS and the NSPCC. A-level dance students Daniela Fabbricatore, Emma Garner and Serena Seymour organised the show along with dance teacher Ashleigh Cooper. She said: “The students are talented and enthusiastic and I am hopeful we’ll reach our fundraising target of £2000.”
THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2017
Pic: dancers Emma Garner, Daniela Fabbricatore, Serena Seymour, Sofia Fabbricatore, Laura Mayoh - Smith, Sian Gurney, Jess Puczylo & Natalia Puczylo
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Parish Council notes A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on January 9.
Police Sgt Rod Smart reported that there had been a reduction in the crime figures in December from 69 to 38. He said there were no leads regarding the spate of burglaries from business premises on Sibson Road in December. There have been six recent reports of number plates being stolen in the village, he said. These are often used when thieves steal petrol by filling up and driving away. Sgt Smart said the Police had contacted the County Council regarding the times street lights on Sibson Road are switched off at night time. The Parish Council agreed a precept for the year 2017/18 of £379,479 which represents a nil increase of the council tax demand per household. It was reported that a surplus of £33,890 was available for unexpected emergencies or for projects not currently budgeted for. A member of the public reported that she felt there was a real need for a bus shelter on the A6 near the junction with Beechfield Avenue. Elderly people who have trouble standing would benefit from the shelter which would also protect them from the winter weather. It was reported that County Councillor Iain Bentley had offered to donate a bus shelter again as he had done in 2016, erected on Wanlip Lane. Chair Ann Marshall said that the provision of bus shelters falls within the county council’s budget and that if Birstall Parish Council provides them, parishioners will be paying twice
for the same service. Provision of a bus shelter requires permission from the County Council, a public consultation of nearby residents and licences need to be applied for. The costs of maintenance must be a consideration, and there may be a lot of further requests for shelters. Cllr Marshall reported that the County Council says it can currently find no money in its budget for bus shelters. Cllr Sheila Alcock said that the new shelter on Wanlip Lane had been very well received and that she is hearing calls for more. Cllr Roy Rollings said that as the Council had already part funded the provision of the base of the Wanlip Lane shelter, it could do so again, it could consider each request on a case by case basis, and that the offer of a second free shelter represented good value for money. The County Council’s budget has been cut and it will not find the money for shelters, he said. Cllr Tony Fowler asked why Cllr Bentley couldn’t donate a shelter to the County Council directly, and said the main issue was the unknown costs of ongoing maintenance. The agenda item before councillors was to consider whether or not to exercise the power to install and maintain bus shelters within the parish. A proposal that the Parish Council should not exercise this power was proposed and the vote was seven in favour and six against. In response to a question from Cllr Rollings, Chair Ann Marshall confirmed that the decision could not be changed for six months. It was reported that repairs to Birstall lock would take place in February.
New group formed A NEW group has been formed to raise money for local charities and is looking for new members. In October 2016 the Birstall British Legion Women’s Section was disbanded following changes made by the British Legion head office. The ladies of the Women’s Section in Birstall were unhappy with the changes and so, in company with other Women’s Sections across the country, decided that they should disband. Spokeswoman Linda Lakin said: “The ladies who had done lots of fundraising in the past wanted to continue to do these activities and so we have formed the Birstall ForgetMe-Nots to raise money for local charities.” The group meets at the British Legion on Front Street Birstall on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 7.30pm. “We plan to continue to arrange trips out, as we have done previously, and also to continue with our fundraising” said Linda, “Instead of any money
raised going to the British Legion we have all chosen our own local charity which we would like to benefit. Each £50 raised goes to a charity of our choice and so far we have made donations to The Hope Charity, LOROS and Vista. “We would like to invite any ladies interested in joining us to come along to the next meeting which will take place on February 17 when we will be discussing our summer outings and future fundraising activities.”
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Couple celebrate anniversary
A BIRSTALL couple who met singing Gilbert & Sullivan operas together as teenagers have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. Douglas and Dorothy Folwell of Johnson Road both left school at 14 and after work went to the Evening Institute on Narborough Road to sing. “We were Pics: Douglas & teamed up Dorothy Folwell today & on together in their ‘Trial by wedding Jury’ says day Dorothy (84).
The couple were married 10 years later at the church of the Martyrs on Westcotes Drive. Dorothy said: “We were always friends, we got on so well, and the marriage, well it all sort of happened”. The day after their wedding they moved into the Johnson Road home where they still live today. Douglas (84) began his working life as an engineer but for most of it he was employed by the Post Office, with 10 years as a postman delivering mail in Birstall with his working day starting at 5am and finishing at 2pm. Dorothy stayed at home to bring up daughter Julie and son Paul – the couple now have two grandchildren and one great granddaughter. They celebrated their anniversary on January 5 with a family get-together at Birstall Village Hall. Douglas said: “Dorothy has been a perfect angel to me as I’m an awkward devil and she puts up with me.” “He’s a gentleman, he’s always been lovely with me” said Dorothy, who says the secret of a long marriage is give and take and to always remain friends.
Social media help BIRSTALL RESIDENT and social media expert Paul Ince from BizPaul Social Media is bringing his programme for small businesses and groups to Birstall in February and March. Aimed at increasing people’s knowledge about how social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter and LinkedIn work for organisations, Paul says his courses have been developed with the local community in mind. “Most businesses have some social media presence these days, and most know that they can use it to engage with customers and drive people towards their company” says Paul. “But many don’t know of all the features they could be using to grow their following or even sell more of their products and services.”
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The #SocialMicro programme starts at The Cedars Academy on Monday Feb 20, 6-9pm with How to Win at Facebook for Business, followed by Get Facebook Ads Right on Monday March 13, 6-9pm. Although BizPaul Social Media is based at Loughborough University’s Science and Enterprise Park, The Cedars Academy was chosen as a location for the course because of the opportunity it presents to Birstall businesses. “We have a great set of diverse businesses in Birstall and I believe many are not using social media to its full potential. I’d love them to come together in an affordable training session, share their experiences and go away with actions that will improve their business.” For details of the Birstall course contents, and to book a place on the courses, visit www.bizpaul.com/courses. Paul would particularly like to hear from community groups and charities and can be contacted on 01509 228702 or via paul@bizpaul.com
THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2017
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WI news Beginner runners join programme 33 MEMBERS of Birstall and Wanlip WI were present for the first meeting of 2017 on January 9. As usual the noise levels were high as everyone shared their Christmas and New Year experiences and paid their yearly subscriptions. We now have so many new members that we are going to have to wear name badges as it gets increasingly difficult to know everyone’s name! We soon settled down to talk about past, present and future business especially ideas on how to celebrate our 100th Birthday next year. It truly is an amazing achievement that there has been a WI in Birstall for almost a century. Our speaker was Derek Holloway who related the story of the ‘Inverted Jenny’, a stamp that was printed upside down. One sheet of 100 stamps was originally wrongly produced and we heard about the colourful personalities who bought them over the years. The sheets were gradually split up and individually now sell for over a million dollars each. We meet again on February 6 when Sue Drage will talk about ‘Recycling with a Difference’ and the competition will be a ‘Recycled Item’ From Birstall & Wanlip WI
Car boot sales
THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2017
A SERIES of car boot sales will be held in Loughborough market place from January 29. The car boot sales are being organised by Charnwood Borough Council’s markets and fairs team, and will run until March. Mike Bird, Market and Fairs manager at the borough council said: “We held a one-off car boot sale in December as part of our Christmas markets, and it proved popular so we’ve decided to organise more for this year. “Car boots are a great place to pick up a bargain so we hope that residents and visitors to the town enjoy what’s on offer.” The car boot sales will be held on the following dates: Sunday, January 29 – 10am-2pm Sunday, February 12 – 10am-2pm Sunday, February 26 – 10am-2pm Sunday, March 12 – 10am-2pm If people want to sell items at the car boot, the cost to rent a pitch is £10 for cars and £15 for vans. No booking is required and traders can arrive at the market place from 7am and last entry is 9am. For more information visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/markets or call 01509 634624 and like the Loughborough Markets Facebook page to keep up to date with the latest events
IF YOU’RE out and about around the village on a Monday evening, the chances are you’ll bump into Birstall runners somewhere or other. As well as Mondays being the normal Club Run, January saw the start of the club’s ‘Couch to 5k’ beginners’ running programme on Monday evenings. “The first couple of weeks saw a staggering 150 participants keen to get fitter, lose weight, make new friends and achieve a personal goal of running 5km (3.1 miles) by the end of the tenweek programme” said run leader Scott “The programme follows the Public Brownlow. Health England Couch to 5k plan which He added: “We were completely seeks to develop people with little to no blown away by the number of people running experience to being able to run that showed up on the first, cold night. 5k in just ten weeks through a gradual We think it was testament to our reputaincrease in intensity week-upon-week. tion of running successful C2-5K pro“The Club provides the structure and grammes in the past. Once again, the the support and, for their part, each programme is free – we just want peoparticipant is trusted to repeat the Monple to come along, have fun, meet new day club session a further twice in the people and hopefully surprise themselves week that follows and in their own time. in the process! The enthusiasm that the current cohort “The people that joined the previous is showing is quite phenomenal and programme a year ago are now accomrather infectious. Indeed, it gives the plished runners with many having enwhole club a ‘feel good’ factor and tered half marathons in the next year, we’ve put on additional Wednesday something very few would have believed group sessions just to satisfy demand. was possible at the outset.” “So, if you see the team pounding the Run Leader, Colin Rimmer, said: streets on a Monday or a Wednesday
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night do give us a pip or say hello, it really does help you know!” More information on Birstall Running Club can be found on the club’s website, www.birstallrc.org.uk. There are Club runs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and new runners are welcome at these sessions. Pic: Birstall runners in Leicester’s Town Hall Square this Christmas where they joined in with carol singing before running back to Birstall for mince pies at the club’s HQ
The March issue of
THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Mar 3. The copy deadline is Feb 17.
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YOUR SAY...
The Birstall Post welcomes your views and opinions on any subject. Letters, which must include your name and address, (though not necessarily for publication) can be posted to: The Birstall Post, Unit 109, Greenacres, The Sidings, Leicester LE4 3BR, or handed in at Birstall library or email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk
White elephant Yet another white elephant from the parish council, the climbing frames which cost £25,000 are a danger to toddlers and are never used. Before they were installed I asked a councillor if the only two swings which
are suitable for toddlers could be reagree with the author of that letter. I paired and I was assured they were to moved to Birstall over twenty years ago be upgraded and they never were but moving here as it seemed a well kept the climbing frames were installed short- and leafy suburb. I now find it distressly afterwards and since then I have never ing to see mature gardens being deseen anyone use them, I use the playing stroyed for concrete driveways, rubbish fields every week with my 2 ½ year old dumped and wheelie bins left out for granddaughter. others to trip over. I am aware that not The frame which is immediately outevery one is a keen gardener or can side the gate to the toddlers corner has afford to purchase expensive plants, but a framework which is at head height for surely basic housekeeping should be a toddler, only last week my granddaugh- adhered to. Remember when the area ter ran into it and received quite a signif- goes down hill so does your investment. icant head bruise and lump on her head We can all make Birstall a pleasant enviwhich is still evident a week later and I ronment to live in. I would also suggest am sure there may have been others and that Landlords have a responsibility to I am sure there will be others, it is used ensure standards where they are renting also by the Greengate nursery with a houses. Somebody commented how nice number of toddlers. Quorn is with their flowers and wooden Why won’t the councillors find out bus shelters, well we also now have a who uses the playing field and make it posh bus shelter and should ensure our more suitable for that age group, or just homes enhance the environment and not talk to the users? become an eyesore for others. Also the dog fouling has not been I would also like to add that this year reduced or may even be worse. the Christmas tree was wonderful, the A disappointed council tax payer. parish council did well this time. S. Evans
I agree In response to letter in the January edition of the Birstall Post, titled P....d Off. I wanted to respond that I fully
Complaint
I would like to make an official complaint regarding my local [Borough] Councillor. Cllr Shergill was elected to Birstall – Wanlip Ward in 2015. It has been brought to my attention that she has not attended a meeting since January 2016, making it a full year since my councillor attended a council meeting. Birstall has major issues, which needs and deserves good representation, we have issues with Harrowgate Park, Hallam Fields, the new housing development and crime has increased just to mention a few. Councillors work with every department in the community, the police, fire, neighbourhood watch and other organisations in the village. Being a Councillor it is an extremely important role and should be taken seriously. But how can our councillor take the role seriously and represent the electors when she does not turn up and treats the electors this way. Representation of the village and the community should come first, it is about what is best for the village and the people living here. Thanks It has also been mentioned that she Gary Sheridan: 27 July 1964 – 31 has claimed her full councillors allowDec 2016 ance in the year, while not attended or I sit here late on Monday night Jan doing any work, I would ask this to be paid back. 16th 2017. It is a disgrace and a massive waste Soft music playing of tax payer’s money when budgets are in the background, being cut. Part of that allowance would trying to ignore those be toward work carried out in the ward tears falling down my she represents, in which she has done cheeks. Searching for nothing. words that could exI ask for Cllr Shergill to stand down press feeling of gratitude to so many people with immediate effect so that BirstallWanlip Ward can be represented by who have showered someone who will actually do the job love, affection and they were elected to do. compassion on my I am also amazed that the Conservadaughter ‘Tig’, grandtive ran council has let this situation daughters, Claud and carry one for so long and should have Scarl over these last been stopped after 6 month and that the two weeks. Conservative councillors in Birstall have Not only the many not taken any action sooner. many friends – ex Name & address supplied school chums, workCharnwood Borough Council is a mates, golfing partners caring employer to staff as well as their of son in law Gary local councillors. Councillor illness and Sheridan, but to all injury often happens, and Charnwood Tig’s friends who Borough Council treats them all with the rushed to her side , same caring approach, You may recall sending messages, that it was not too long ago when a cards, flowers. former Birstall Councillor was absent Claudia & Scarlett’s and confined to a wheelchair for quite a pals, their boy friends, while. In the case of Councillor Shergill Tig’s sister Sarah, husband Vin, my grandson the nature of the illness was such that treatment and recovery period took Harry. longer. All Councillors at a Full Council Yes all of you who meeting agreed to extend her leave as is have given us a shoulder to lean and cry on, required in the Council’s constitution. During her illness she has kept in touch given us strength to with me and with her team in Birstall, tread a new path into they help each other and the other three the coming years. I took on her Ward work. I am very know, along with Gary’s Mum Ann, broth- pleased to inform you that we will be ers Dave, Ian, Glen and welcoming her back to Council as of Monday. families we will do it. David Slater So, as the music fades away I say thanks Leader of Charnwood Borough Counfrom deep inside to cil every one of you. Inadequate as that one word The March issue of can be, so I can only say thank you once THE BIRSTALL POST more. will be published on Mar 3. Keith Miller The copy deadline is Feb 17.
THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2017
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THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2017
Rotary Do you enjoy meeting new people? Enjoy sampling new experiences? Enjoy learning about local and worldwide projects? Like to give something back to the local community? If you said yes to any of the above, then Syston Rotary Club would like to meet you. Rotary International is a worldwide organisation that not only supports international causes but also contributes to local projects and causes either by fundraising or by giving practical support and time whilst the emphasis is also having fun in good company. Rotary can also provide excellent business networking opportunities. Syston Rotary Club has developed as a ‘satellite’ club of the well-established Rotary Club of Wreake Valley and we are hoping to attract people of all ages, female or male from all walks of life to join us at our fortnightly meetings. We have been around for about one year. One meeting each month is a business planning meeting held at 7.30pm in the Hub café on the corner of High Street and Upper Church Street, Syston. We discuss the projects we would like to support, how and when we can contribute to them. In the last year, we have worked with the Wreake Valley club with the Watermead Fun Run to support Alex’s Wish, a local charity that supports research into treatments for Duchennes Muscular Dystrophy. We also organised a beer festival to coincide with the Syston Carnival. All beers were supplied by Leicestershire breweries, thereby supporting local businesses and proceeds were donated to the Soar Valley Music Centre which provides music lessons for children and allows them to participate in musical activities that schools are no longer able to provide. Our second meeting a month is a social event; we have undertaken a wide variety of activities from meals out; sausage making courtesy of local butchers, Gamble & Hollis; walks with the ranger from Leicestershire Wildlife Trust at Cossington Meadows and an evening on the putting green and driving range at Beedles Golf Club. We have supported other Rotary Clubs in quiz teams, meals and a sponsored walk of the Leicestershire Round to support the new visitors centre at Bradgate Park. So, there is an extremely varied range of activities with something to suit everyone’s taste. You don’t have to do them all but we won’t ever stop you from joining in! The great sense of achievement you will experience in helping the local community and others around the world will be matched by the fun you’ll have doing it. Our next meeting is 7.30pm at the Hub café on Monday February 13, 2017. If you are interested you can contact Fiona on 0116 3672892 or Paul on 07720374510 or just turn up – we will be delighted to meet you. From Syston Rotary Club
A mess I can understand the Parish Council wanting to reduce the amount of items surrounding the graves in the lawned areas. Yes, it will make it easier for the grass to be maintained.
Noticeboard all details printed free Birstall Library Children’s Half Term Crafts Thursday Feb 16 11am to 12.30pm Fun things to make Call in and book now! Only £2 per child Tel: 0116 3058756
Councillor Surgery Last Sat of every month 10am to 12noon 10 Sibson Road, Old Council Office Talk to your District & County Councillors to discuss any issue of local concern
Birstall Running Club Meet Monday & Friday nights, 6.20 for 6.30 run Birstall School Lane playing fields – showers & toilets available Wednesday night beginners group at Birstall Legion 7pm Speed work sessions also available on Wednesdays for those wanting to improve Contact Deryk on dwoods1@sky.com or Bob 07927 346640 Web site – www.birstallrc.org.uk Mountsorrel Methodist Church Centre presents Sunday Night @ Eight
Organ Recitals on Sunday February 19 at 8pm by Thomas Keogh, Holt Cross Priory, Leicester Admission is free Donations for Church Development Fund Buffet from 7.30pm
CLASH 2012 MSK Health Promotion Hub, Get Healthy Leicester Thursday 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd February 2017 11.00am - 12.00pm. Please book beforehand At Dock 218, 75 Exploration Drive, Pioneer Park, Leicester, LE4 5NU Tel. 0333 344 4611 CLASH Table Tennis Club - For anyone between 11yrs and 23yrs living with a family member with arthritis Monday Evenings at Rawlins Academy 7-8pm My issue is, that, after the grass is cut the whole area looks a total mess. Grass cuttings all over the the place including the new tarmac paths. When it dies off it just looks awful. Would it not be possible to invest in grass boxes for the mowers? There is an area to deposit the cuttings. These will become compost which would be good for the Rose gardens. Carol Withers
Loughborough Road, Quorn LE12 8DY Friday Evenings Peepul Enterprise at 7-8pm Orchardson Avenue, Leicester LE4 6DP Cafe on the Corner - pop in for coffee with Mark and bring your iPad queries. Please ring Mark if you have a query beforehand on 07801 718908. Thursday 9th February 2017 2.00pm - 3.00pm CLASH AGM Wednesday 8th February 7.00-9.00pm - At Dock 218
Thursday Group are holding a
Coffee Morning in aid of LOROS on Saturday Morning 4th March 10-12 am in the Methodist Church coffee shop, Wanlip Lane. Home made cakes, books & puzzles, tombola etc. Everyone welcome St James Social Group
Film Night Florence Foster Jenkins Starring Meryl Streep and Hugh Grant
Birstall Tea Dances Birstall Village Hall Birstall Road Leicester LE4 4DH Fridays 10th & 24th February 2017 All Welcomed 3.30pm - 5.30pm £4 Each On The Door Tea / Coffee / Home Made Cakes Included Further Information Contact Jackie 0116 2248 278 / 07908607405 Email: jackielucas957@hotmail.co.uk
St James Tiny Tots Group Every Monday in term-time from 1.15 to 2.45. For babies, toddlers and their carers. £1 per family per session. We meet in St James Church, Church Hill. For further information please phone Marion Tegg 0116 2673817
The inspirational true story of a woman who followed her dream and lit up the lives of all who came to know her Friday 10th February at 7pm St James Parish Church, Church Hill Birstall, LE4 4DN No charge (Bucket Collection) Refreshments available
Lots of opportunities to perform throughout the year Dance for fun or train to a pre- professional standard in a friendly, welcoming environment Graded Examination classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Lyrical, Acrobatics from aged 2 upwards. Vocal coaching • Tumbling Skills
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Birstall Flower Club Weds 22nd February 2017, 7.15pm Birstall Village Hall Demonstration by Lynda Stamp, demonstration title : “Chasing Rainbows”. Visitors welcome - £5 Queries to Sylvia: 0116 2674206 or Mary Linnett: 07704398017
Windsurfing & Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Beginners, intermediate and experienced are all welcome at King
Lears Lake,North Gate, Watermead Park, Wanlip, LE7 1PD off the A46 just north of Leicester. Membership Adult £65/yr Family £85/yr Incl. use of club boards, sails and paddles Website www.leicestersailboardclub.co.uk or e-mail leics-sailboardclub@virginmedia.co.uk Join us at our popular annual St Patrick’s
Ceilidh with live music from local band ‘Turlough’. Held at The Rothley Centre, 12 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, LE7 7PR on Friday 10th March 2017. Arrival at 7pm for a 7:30pm start – Late. Light supper and Licenced bar provided. Generously supported by Soar Valley Lions Club. Suggested donation £10 (Donation not required to attend event) - £10 could pay to treat 50 children suffering from diarrhoea, a leading cause of death in children in Africa. Inter Care sends high quality medical aid to rural health units in
sub-Saharan Africa while making use of surplus medicines from pharmaceutical companies and healthcare products donated by GPs. For more information or to book your place please contact Charlotte on 0116 269 5925 or c.wright@intercare.org.uk Leicester Symphony Orchestra 95th Concert Season
Concert
Film Presentations
Saturday 25 February 2017 7.30pm De Montfort Hall Conductor: John Andrews Flute: Katherine Bryan Programme: Debussy: Prélude à l’après-midi d’un Faune Ravel: Rapsodie Espagnol Poulenc (arr. Berkeley): Sonata for Flute Borne: Carmen Fantasy for Flute and Orchestra Massenet: Méditation from Thaïs Debussy: La Mer 6.30pm FREE pre-concert talk Tickets: £11 / £15 / £18 NUS/25 & under £5 • Concessions
Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council
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"Trumbo" (Feb 10, 124 mins) After WW11, there was a deliberate American government attempt to shame communists. Dalton Trumbo was one of several screenwriters and producers who were incensed by this challenge to American rights to freedom of thought and speech. Bryan Cranston, as Trumbo, deserved his Oscar nomination for his fascinating portrayal of a time when sus-
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THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2017
12
picion could end a promising career. "Hunt for the Wilderpeople" (Mar 10, 101 mins)
This comedy drama, the most successful film ever produced in New Zealand, with director Taika Waititi, is based on Barry Crump's beautiful novel, "Wild Pork & Watercress". Rebellious foster teenager, Ricky, is dumped at a remote shack with the loving Bella and husband Hector. Tragedy suddenly appears so Ricky and Hector, with their dogs, have to disappear into the bush, ahead of a man-hunt. This is a warm-hearted, yet consistently clever film. "The Girl on the Train" will be shown on April 7. Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall, starting at 7.30pm. Film tickets will cost £5 which will include refreshments & a lucky prize draw during the interval. Advanced tickets may be purchased via the parish office –0116 236 7626 or at the door.
J H J LANDSCAPING ALL ASPECTS COVERED ALL TYPES OF FENCING
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Birstall Royal British Legion 4th Sadie Marie 11th Neil Warner 18th Claire Mac 25th Lauren Townley Dancing every saturday night with live entertainment Bingo Free beer raffle Not forgetting open the box Every Tuesday bingo starting at 9.15pm Quiz every Wednesday starting at 8.30pm Sunday quiz 12th and 26th February starting at 9pm Acoustic night on 19th February starting at 8pm Food available every Saturday 122pm Wakes catered for Free WIFI available
Barrow Panto Group is celebrating its 20th family pantomime this year with a brand new version of the traditional
Cinderella Friday 10th March starting at 7pm and Sat 11th March 2pm and 7pm in Humphrey Perkins Community Centre, Cotes Road, Barrow, LE12 8JU. New jokes, slightly new characters, all the old panto fun. And a lot of talent! Barrow Panto Group is stuffed with talent: we can sing and dance and crack terrible jokes. We can wind up the audience until they can’t stop laughing. We can create stunning visuals with gorgeous costumes, terrific scenery and magical lighting. Then of course there’s Richard…Say no more (except to
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THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2017
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say that he wrote the script!) Ticket prices will be £6 for concessions including children, £8 for adults and a family ticket of £24 for 2+2. We welcome groups and can offer special rates. Disabled access is excellent. They can be bought via Paypal from www.busca.org.uk from Barrow's Paper Shop, via the box office on 07718153117 or judithrodgers155@gmail.com Don’t miss out. Get your tickets now. Pantos aren’t just for Christmas you know
Birstall Methodist Monday Women’s Group Meeting held in the Coffee Shop Programme for February and 1st Monday in March 2017 6 Feb: Winter Stories with Diane Allen 13 Feb: A visit to a local Fire Station – details later 20 Feb: The Barber Shop Singers – Open Evening so all welcome 27 Feb: Tales of a Toast Master – Speaker Geoffrey Harris 6 Mar: A Methodist Minister – Speaker our Minister Rev Paula Hunt Don’t sit at home feeling lonely – come along to our Monday Group and make new friends!
Birstall & District Local History Society The Annual General Meeting of the Society took place on Thursday 12th January 2017 and the following Officers and Committee were elected. Chairperson: Adrienne Topley
Vice Chairperson: Eileen Chambers Secretary: Adrienne Topley Treasurer: Diane King Committee: Mike Smith, John Kilby, Stuart Liquorish, Audrey Lennon, Glenys Ratcliffe Any person who would like to join the Committee please contact any of the above named as we always welcome new people. The next monthly meeting of the Society takes place on Thursday 9th February 2017 in the Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall, Leics commencing at 7.30pm. The subject of the talk "The History of Nursery Rhymes, Riddles and Proverbs" Speaker: Felicity Austin. All visitors are welcome to join us for this talk. Parking will be available on the night on the Birstall Playing Fields through the School Lane entrance Beginners Linedancing Class Tuesday 7th March , 7-7.45pm
Absolute Beginners 7.45 to 930pm Intermediates The Co-op Sports & Social Club, Birstall Rd, Birstall LE4 4DE Contact Jan 07725441906 or Deb 07920260881
Women's World Day of Prayer St James Church Friday, March 3 at 12noon. A light lunch, followed by a slide presentation on the Philippines. 2pm Service on the theme of 'Am I being fair to you?'
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Sunday May 7th at 7pm An evening of popular music with The Ibstock Brick Brass Band At St Theresa's Church 53 Front Street, Birstal Pay on the door £5
Birstall & District Art Society Tuesday, 14th February, at 7pm You are invited to join us at the Palmer-Tomkinson Centre at Cedars Academy, Wanlip Lane, to watch well known professional artist Lea Nixon giving a watercolour demonstration entitled “City/Townscape”. Come and join us to watch an expert at work. Newcomers and visitors most welcome. Refreshments available at the interval. Demonstration ends at 9.00 p.m. Members £1; Guests £3. Free raffle. Ample parking and wheelchair access. Charnwood Borough Council’s
Holiday Activity Programme is back for February half-term with a host of activities on offer. The activities will run from Monday, February 13 to Friday, February 17, 2017 at locations across the borough including Birstall, Thurmaston and Loughborough. Most of the activities are suitable for children of all ages and families are welcome to come and watch and take part in a number of events. Activities on offer include: Bikeability •Laser Quest Boxing • Street cricket Family cycle ride Geocaching – learning how to use GPS to find hidden objects Konga Kids • Horse riding lessons Clubbercise The price of activities starts from £2.75 and Wild Card holders can also enjoy great discounts. If you are aged five to 16, or have a disability and live or go to school in Charnwood, get your hands on a Wild Card by visiting www.charnwood.gov.uk/wildcardn ews For a full list of activities available this halfterm,visit, www.charnwood.gov.uk/holidayprogrammes to book, call 01509 634561 or email active.together@charnwood.gov.uk
Diver examines damage at lock A STICKING lock gate at Birstall locks was investigated by divers from the Canal & River Trust in December. The gate had slumped in the water and divers found damage to the concrete lock floor immediately below the hinge that the 2.6 tonne gate sits upon. Stephen Hardy from the Canal & River Trust said: “The [repair] works are still in the planning phase but we hope they’ll start towards the end of February. “We are hoping to put a temporary walkway in place which will enable the path to be kept open.” Birstall’s lock keeper Peter Price says there are plans to improve the area around the lock. These include bulb planting and completing repairs to the path north of the bridge. A noticeboard is also being considered. He said: “Leicester is now more attractive as a tourist destination, with the King Richard III centre and the National Space Centre, and lots of boats are coming through the lock and more boats are
OVER 400 children and adults attended the crib service at St James’ Church on Christmas Eve
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They were there to take part in a Christmas celebration and to see the winners announced of the Birstall Sheep Trail. Children had searched for knitted sheep in the windows of Sibson Road shops in the run up to Christmas. Winning names were drawn out of a hat and four of the five winners who were present received their prizes – a knitted sheep.
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Pic: a diver prepares to enter the water at Birstall lock
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THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2017
14
Local club offers warm lakeside welcome
15
A LOCAL club promises a warm welcome to anyone who wants to try out windsurfing or paddle boarding on King Lear’s Lake at Watermead Country Park.
Leicester Windsurfing and Paddle Boarding Club has been operating at Watermead for over 20 years and is organising an open day on Sunday May 21. “Everyone is welcome to come along whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced windsurfer or paddle boarder” said club spokesman Tony Richards. There is no charge on the day but you need to inform the club about your attendance via the contact page of its website: www.leicestersailboardclub.co.uk. Tony said: “All you need is a swimsuit, a pair of trainers that you don’t mind getting wet and if you are 18 or younger you must be supervised by your legal guardian.” For those who wish to take the sport further, club membership is £65 a year
for adults and £85 for families. Membership includes the use of the club cabin, boards, sails and paddles, and a car park pass. One enthusiastic member is painter and decorator Ricky Driver (51). He said: “What I enjoy most is family time on the water
with my children. It’s a chance to escape the pressures of life and the club is so friendly.” Martin Higgins (47) is a fork lift truck engineer. He said: “I enjoy getting some exercise on a local lake in the beautiful surroundings of Watermead Country Park. It’s nice to have a picnic by the lake in the sun while enjoying water sports within a few miles of home.” Access to the club and King Lear’s Lake is via the country park’s main entrance from Wanlip Road, near to the Hope and Anchor pub (LE7 1PD)
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WE HAVE seen a fall in the number of crimes reported in December, with 38 crimes being reported compared to 69 in November. On the morning of December 5 we did however receive eight reports of shops having been broken into along Sibson Road, which is clearly concerning. We visited many of the shops to advise them on their security & we have also completed extensive house to house enquiries in the area, however unfortunately we have not been able to identify SPRING WILL soon be here and any suspects at this time. We have also had six reports this it is a good time to look at month of number plates being stolen your garden from a would be from vehicles, with older style Ford Ka’s appearing to be targeted. It is believed burglar's perspective. that the owner of a similar vehicle has Large shrubs and trees close to your property can shield a burglar from neigh- been stealing the plates in order to steal fuel from petrol stations. I am pleased to bours and passers by and are easy to report however that the vehicle involved trim back. You could also think about has recently been recovered by the Poplanting prickly plants and shrubs as lice, and so we are hopeful that these these can act as a deterrent. Check that thefts will now your shed and any outbuildings are sestop. cure- special screws can be bought for I am also hinges and doors, that cannot be undone pleased to without a special tool. report that Make sure you have secure locks if following the you are storing garden tools and equipment and always make sure that you lock spate of thefts from vehicles away tools after use. If you have ladders, last month, they should be padlocked with a strong three males chain. Brackets can also be fixed to walls to secure them. If you have security have recently been charged lights, it is a good idea to check them with a number regularly. Bulbs are easily replaced and of these, includit is a good idea to check their positioning several of it is no good having them pointing upthe ones that wards as they will not trigger if needed. occurred in We have advice shops on the third Birstall. Saturday of every month and are we are For further always available for advice. We also stock crime informaa range of security items, all sold at cost tion please price. Our next advice shop is on Saturvisit: day the 18th, from 10am until midday. We are located at the old Council offices, www.police.uk/l opposite the garden centre. We also offer eicestershire/NL free coding of cycles at every advice shop. 60/
NHW news
& crime report
Crime Prevention Advice As stated above, we have had several thefts of number plates this month. People will often steal these so that they can fit them to a similar vehicle, then use it to steal fuel or commit crime. Some simple steps to avoid this happening to you are as follows: 1. Fit anti-theft screws to your number plate. These cannot be removed with a traditional screwdriver, making it more difficult to steal the plates. 2. Park your vehicle as close as you can to a building, wall or another car (owned by you!) so that thieves cannot easily get to the number plates to remove them. 3. Ideally, park your car in a locked garage or consider fitting gates to your driveway to act as a deterrent & make it more difficult for thieves to get onto your property in the first place.
Neighbourhood update The new Parish Council CCTV camera has now been installed on the Sibson Road car park and we are hopeful that this will act as a useful tool in combating some Anti-Social behaviour that we have been having in this area in the evenings. Meet your local police team; Friday 10th February. 2pm – 3pm. Kingsgate Avenue shops, LE4 3HD Friday 17th February. 2pm – 3pm. Tesco’s, Sibson Road, LE4 4ND Saturday 18th February. 10am – 12pm. Sibson Road beat Office (with the NHW) Tuesday 21st February. 5pm – 6pm. Co-op, Wanlip Lane, LE4 4JU From PC 1759 Dave Jaeckels, PCSO’s 6611 Mark Butler and 6552 Mo Musa. NL60 – Birstall Police Office. http://www.leics.police.uk Tel: 0116 2677355 (Please note this is an advice line only – Please use 101 or 999 to report crime).
From Birstall and Wanlip NHW
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Take up singing with chorus A FREE 'Learn to Sing in Harmony' course is being held by Heart of England Chorus in February at Birstall Social Club on Wanlip Lane. The four week course is aimed at both newcomers and those who have not sung for a while, and runs from Monday February 6, 13, 20 and 27. Spokesman Jan Hunt said: “The course aims to encourage more men to take up singing, which is increasingly acknowledged as being an aid to a healthy lifestyle. “There are many men who would love to sing but most never get around to trying, don’t have the opportunity or maybe are too self-conscious to give it a go but the simple fact is that just about everyone can sing. “Attendees learn within a group which makes it less daunting, there are no
Pic: The Heart of England Chorus
embarrassing public auditions and it’s free!” Participants will be helped to discover their voice, learn the techniques of making the most of it and how to use it in four-part harmony with others. “There’s no need to worry about reading music as the teaching methods employed are designed to help quickly learn the specially-commissioned song” said Jan.
For men who haven't sung for a few years this course is the perfect way to ease their vocal chords back into action. Regular singers may also find the course useful to learn different voice parts, in a relaxed and friendly environment. The course will run from 7.30 to 10pm. All the material will be provided with access to course teaching materials. Contact: P.J.Hunt Secretary 0116 2675 339 email: jansbolt@btinternet.com
THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2017
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Students tidy garden TWO STUDENTS from the Cedars Academy volunteered to help clear up a garden at a Birstall day centre. Jake Fryer and James Wilmot spent a day at the St James Day Centre in the Village Hall, clearing the outdoor sitting space which had become overgrown and slippery underfoot for its elderly users. Cath Kinder from the Cedars said: “Our two students spent the morning cutting back dead growth and cleaning up, to make it a safe and light place to sit out. Jake and James worked tirelessly cutting up the rubbish to take it away and sweeping up the dead leaves and debris. “Thet were very proud of their work and hope to go back later in the year to maintain the good work.”
Pic: Elsa Virgin (right) presents a cheque to Gill Smart from Heartlink
Parish Council sets budget
A YEAR of fundraising by Birstall Quilters has enabled them to present a donation of £1200 to the charity Heartlink. It supports parents of children with heart conditions and the money will help pay for equipment at the intensive care unit at Glenfield hospital. £168 raised by City Dance was also donated to Heartlink.
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THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2017
BIRSTALL PARISH Council will not be increasing its precept demand for residents for the year 2017/18. The Parish Council precept is the part of the Council Tax collected from residents each year that goes to fund the Parish Council. The amount for a Band D household in 2017/18 will be £84.81, the same as 2016/17 Councillors considered the budget at two full council meetings in December and January and looked at budget options including a 7.7% decrease, before voting for a ‘no increase’ precept. The total precept demand has increased from £369,305 in 2016/17 to £379,479, but because the number of households has increased the amount collected per household will not increase. A parish council spokesman said: “This means that for the second year running the Parish Council was able to take advantage of this situation by raising the precept demand to Charnwood Borough Council, but the good news is that this could be done without raising the amount that the residents of Birstall would be asked to pay in the Parish Council element on their Council Tax bills, and this is because it is being shared by more people.”
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Practical diet advice A BIRSTALL student at Coventry University has devised a local initiative as a way to increase nutritional knowledge around the village. Cindy Woolley (42) is currently in her third year at Coventry University studying towards a Dietetic Degree. She said: “I am very passionate about nutrition and always look out for opportunities to try and improve the health and well-being of the population, especially with current statistics from the Department of Health showing a staggering 61.9 % of adults and 28% children (2-15 years) are either overweight or obese.” To spread the message about good nutrition, Cindy has displayed a variety of food facts sheets from the British Dietetic Association on the numerous Parish Council notice boards around the village. She said: “I feel this incentive
would be an excellent opportunity to help to improve nutritional knowledge within our local community by providing evidence based practical tips and advice around diet”. Some of the sheets’ topics include, weight loss, portion sizes and sugar. She added: “There is lots of different dietary and nutritional advice out there, however Dietitians are the only nutrition health care professionals who are regulated by law and governed by an ethical code to ensure that they always work to the highest standards. They use the most up to date scientific evidence and translate it into understandable, practical advice about food.” After completing her degree, Cindy
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Plans to improve Clock Tower area Plans for city museum THE AREA around Leicester’s Clock Tower is set to be transformed by proposals announced by Leicester City Council.
The museum is in a prime location next to the National Space Centre on the growing technology hub known as Pioneer Park, but has had no significant investment for 20 years. It currently attracts about 50,000 visitors a year, and showcases the city’s industrial past with artefacts from the days of steam power, four huge steam pumping engines, and a large collection of historic vehicles, including an extremely rare early car built in Leicester in 1908. Leicester City Council has drawn up a £500,000 programme of works, which would improve the building and its grounds, as well as enabling it to house industrial heritage items from Snibston Discovery Centre in Coalville, which closed in 2015. The work includes spending £75,000 on improving the museum and pump house buildings, and £160,000 to enhance the museum grounds, including a better external visitor area and interactive play facilities. “The museum’s Transport Shed is so full of important vehicles that it is impossible to access or display them properly, so £65,000 would be spent on improving the shed to make more space for visitors to enjoy the displays” said a council spokesman. The proposed works are estimated to take two years to complete – the improvements to the museum and its grounds, along with new signs etc are expected to be done during 2017/18, with works at the Transport Shed likely to be completed in 2018/19.
World day of prayer THE WOMEN'S World Day of Prayer this year is on the theme of 'Am I being fair to you?' from the women of the Philippines. It will be held at St James Church on Friday, March 3, and will begin at 12noon with a simple, light lunch, followed by a slide presentation on the Philippines. There will then be a service at 2pm. All are welcome.
The £7million scheme will remove traffic from the streets from 11am until 5am each day – in line with the rest of Leicester’s pedestrian zone. To pave the way for the streets’ pedestrianisation, a new road would be created, linking Belgrave Gate with Mansfield Street and providing a quick route out of the city centre for buses leaving the Haymarket Bus Station. The new link road – for buses only – would remove the need for buses to use Haymarket and Church Gate. Together with an upgraded Sandacre Street, it would also form a new pedestrian route between the Haymarket bus station and St Margaret’s bus station. New investment in the area will allow two popular shopping streets – Belgrave Gate/Haymarket and Church Gate – to be reconstructed with high quality materials, similar to those used on nearby Silver Street and Guildhall Lane, say the City Council. New trees on Belgrave Gate would further enhance the approach to the Clock Tower. The scheme is part of the City’s Connecting Leicester project, which is improving routes through the city centre for pedestrians while making it more attractive to investors and developers. “It’s vital that we regenerate this highprofile part of the city centre and create a safer – and more attractive – environment for pedestrians in the area around the Clock Tower,” said City Mayor Peter Soulsby. “By removing the buses, and by upgrading the environment on Belgrave Gate and Church Gate, we will give private developers the confidence to invest in the shops and businesses in the area – and that’s something that I’m sure will
Dog control NEW SIGNS on Birstall’s parks and play areas have been erected, warning dog owners about dog control. The signs, erected by Charnwood Borough Council, remind dog owners about the offences of not clearing up after your dog and allowing your dog off the lead. The penalty is £100 or £50 if paid within 10 days of issue. Birstall Parish Council has an enforcement officer and his power to issue fixed penalty notices became effective this January. Two fines have been issued at the time of going to press.
ment’s Local Growth Fund. Proposals to restore Leicester’s Haymarket Theatre – which requires significant investment to bring it up to the standards required for a modern performance and training venue – are included in the city council’s Economic Action Plan. be welcomed by local traders.” The City Mayor announced his intenIf plans get the go-ahead, bus stops tion to support plans to reopen the theain the Clock Tower area would be relotre as a space for live music and cated to the new link road, taxis would performance last June. pick up and drop off near the steps to The consortium that will run the venthe Haymarket Theatre, while parking ue also hopes to host e-sports events, provision would be made elsewhere in filling the 800-seat auditorium with enthe area for Blue Badge holders. thusiasts who will pay to watch profesSubject to planning permission and sional gamers on a big screen. the acquisition of the required land, Before the building can reopen to the work on the new link road could get public, works to restore essential servicunder way in April 2018. Once work es will need to be carried out. starts on site, the new road would take The auditorium will be refurbished – around eight months to build. The pedeswith new seats and new sound and lighttrianisation of Haymarket/Church Gate ing systems – and a café/licensed bar could then get under way in 2019. will be installed. The foyer and entrance The Belgrave Gate and Mansfield areas will be modernised, while retainStreet Link Road and Improvement ing the original look and feel of the old Scheme is supported by the GovernHaymarket Theatre.
New fence erected A NEW fence has been erected along a section of Meadow Lane. The fence will act as a safety barrier between the road and a deep ditch that has been a hazard to motorists and pedestrians for years. Meadow Lane is unadopted and with no local authority prepared to take responsibility for the road, Birstall Parish Council negotiated with Charnwood and the County Council for each to pay a third of the total cost of the fence. The 117 metre, 1 metre high steel post and rail fence cost £11,1267
THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2017
ABBEY PUMPING Station Museum could be set for a £500,000 revamp as part of improvement works designed to increase visitor numbers and better showcase its historic collections.
News from the churches Film night After the dreary weather of January this year, we're all hoping that this month does not live up to its old name of "February fill- dyke"! Valentine's Day on February 14 and Pancake Day on February 28 are the traditional festive days in the month but don't forget the (free) film night at St. James on Friday February 10 at 7pm. The name Florence Foster Jenkins (the title of the film) may not mean anything to you. However this is the real-life story of a rich American lady in the early 20th century, with the firm but mistaken belief that she could sing in opera. Her wealth meant that she could put this belief into action and no-one dared tell her how she really sounded! Meryl Streep plays this part and Hugh Grant her straying husband. The story has both laughter and pathos and some delightful scenes of the richly costumed society of that era. Refreshments are served at the interval. Care Home The opening of the new Cedar Mews Care Home on Hallam Fields is very welcome, particularly as it has opened its doors for community events as well. Our "Nearer" mission group, led by Stephen and Sharon March, is meeting there, usually on a Wednesday evening. All are welcome to come along, and for further information you can contact Stephen on 079107 66909. Confirmation classes Anyone who has ever considered being confirmed into the Church of England - whether you are a regular attender at either of our two local churches or not - might like to know that confirmation classes are to be held by the Rector and Curate on Wednesday evenings starting March 8. If you are interested or would like to come along for a "refresher course", please ring
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THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2017
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Revd Vince Jupp on 2674517. as soon as possible. Also starting in early March, this year's Lent course is to be held on Monday evenings beginning on March 6 (with a possible afternoon alternative if enough people prefer this) There are sign-up sheets at Birstall and Wanlip churches or ring Vince at the number above Air Ambulance Finally, those who have supported recent events in aid of this year's church charity, the Air Ambulance, may like to know that since September, £770 has been raised for their work. This is in addition to £350 from the St. James Gospel choir and £1.170 (half of the proceeds from the Summer Fete). Many thanks to all contributors to this excellent cause. From Birstall Parish Churches Alas No Pantomime It is disappointing to report that for the second year running, the Men’s Pantomime has had to be cancelled, mainly due to a lack of numbers in the cast. There are a variety of suggestions being made about the future including allowing ladies into the cast, or linking with another group. Hopefully things will become a little clearer later in the year. But Services Every Sunday There might not be a pantomime, but our Sunday Services continue as our worship is central to the life of Birstall Methodist Church. The church is blessed with many good preachers, each of whom is very different in their message. Anyone is welcome to our services and you don’t need to have any qualification or belief to attend. Services usually last about an hour, and usually include prayers, hymns, bible readings and an address. Youngsters are welcome to the
19 service, but most attend the Sunday Breakfast Club at the same time (10.30 am). All the preachers are easy to listen to. In February we have two services led by local (or lay) preachers, Andrew Biggins & Jo Kay (who will be accompanied by Juliet Kisob). Our own minister Rev Paula Hunt takes one morning service, and both evening services. Retired minister Rev Tony Pick joins us during February and we shall be pleased to welcome him back after a year long absence from the Circuit. The details of who is preaching and the date are on the back page of The Birstall Post. There are also half-hour Holy ComTHE CHARITY Guide Dogs is munion services each Wednesday at 9.30, currently looking for life and ‘Messy Church’ meets on Saturday 25th for families with young children for changing volunteers to crafts, eating, and a very short act of help people with sight loss worship. Messy Church is led by James get out of their homes, Blackhall. New Chairs reducing their isolation Our green upholstered pews are to and enabling them to bebe replaced by stackable chairs. In the front porch of the church are seven come more mobile and condifferent styles of chairs to give friends fident. an opportunity to examine them, try The initiative is part of Guide Dogs them and then give your comments on ‘My Guide’ the sheets provided. The chairs will be scheme, which on display until February 12. matches blind From Birstall Methodist Church and partially sighted people Sunday Services with a volunteer Our morning service starts at 10.45am and is held in the Community to get out and Room at Highcliffe Primary School, about two-three hours per week. Greengate Lane (LE4 3DL). Our visiting Jackie Elshaw, My Guide Ambassaspeaker on the 12th is Simon Terry dor, said: “Our volunteers spend a few (Leicester) whom many of you will have hours a week guiding their vision imalready met as he has been touring the paired partner on trips in their local village for the past seven years. Please area to achieve their agreed goals. come along and join with us for one of Journeys could be to the shops, to a our services – you can be assured of a café or perhaps to the local gym or warm welcome. There is a Sunday swimming pool or any other activity school for junior children during the that their partner wants to achieve. The morning service and this term we will be volunteer will also help them to establooking at the life of Jesus Christ. Please lish lasting relationships with communinote that we are not in the school on ty members who can, in turn, help 19th, as this is half-term, so ring the them get out more. Becoming a sighted number below for venue. Similarly, guide really allows a volunteer to see contact us for the venue for our evening the life changing impact they are makservice in Birstall, this month on the ing week to week.” 26th at 6pm. A My Guide recipient in the local Evington Lecture area said: “This service has given me Last November Evington Chapel started its series of five lectures on the ‘Solas the confidence that I can get out of my home, maybe not straight away, but in of the Reformation’. February’s topic is time it has given ‘Scripture Alone’, to be given by David me the confiCooke (Banbury) on February 11, startdence to face my ing at 7pm in their Lecture Room. other problems. These meetings are free of charge. Interestingly, I For further information on BIBC ring used to be in 0116 2214883. hospital every From Anne Taylor, Birstall Indethree months but pendent Baptist Church I just haven’t been recently - thanks to getting out Advertise in and a very positive attitude. The confiThe birstall post dence that I can get out of my home has just transformed my life.” 47 x 57mm £26 • 47 x 116mm £44 Anyone can become a My Guide 98 x 57mm £44 • 98 x 116mm £78 volunteer, as long as they are over 1) Decide what size you want eighteen and able to commit to a mini2) Send us a sketch of your ad mum of two hours per week. The chari3) We design, publish ty will provide all of the training This Siz & send e necessary. you the For further information on volunteerWednes bill ing or to find out more about the d a y s +VAT scheme, contact Jackie Elshaw at CALL 4422067 for an advertising rate card, jackie.elshaw@guidedogs.org.uk or or view online at www.birstallpost.co.uk call 01189838882 The prices above exclude VAT
Charity seeks new volunteers
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Birstall BAG’s cancer corner in England has increased by: 0.8% per year. The Trend in our CCG is similar with an increase of 1.2% per year. Breast Cancer Rate in England: 169.9 per 100,000 and rate in West Leic CCG 169.9 per 100,000. This rate has increased by 0.9% per year in both England and West Leic CCG. The risk of breast cancer is linked to being overweight, drinking alcohol, hormone replacement therapy, inactivity and not breast feeding. Lung Cancer Rate in England: 79.8 per 100,000 and rate in West Leic CCG 69.4 per 100,000. The rate is stable in both England and West Leic CCG. 8 out of 10 cases of lung cancer are caused by smoking. Bowel Cancer Rate in England: 72.9 per 100,000 and rate in West Leic CCG 66.5 per 100,000. The rate has increased by 0.4% per year in both England and West Leic CCG. The risk of bowel cancer is linked to many think including eating high levels of red meat, being overweight, a low fibre diet, tobacco smoke and alcohol. Prostate Cancer Rate in England: 181.4 per 100,000
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Small Ads Small ads are 25p for the first 16 words. 17-32 words: 50p. Enclosing payment, post your ad to us or hand it in (inside an envelope) at Birstall library. Trade/business rates for small ads are 25p a word. You are liable for the trade/business rate if you are offering a service for which you are asking for payment, or if you are advertising new goods for sale. All text will be printed bold. Box outline £1 extra. Max 50 words. Phone numbers count as one word.
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Planning P/17/0139/2: 2 Kingsgate Ave – proposed single storey sides and front extension, internal alteration and timber fence P/17/0138/2: 2 Riversdale Close – single storey rear & side extension and internal alterations P/17/0132/2: Unit 15, Meer End – a change of use from a presently new & vacant unit that has a B1 & B2 consent, to B8 storage and distribution. Specifically, the storage & distribution of electrical goods, together with ancillary offices and stores P/17/0053/2: 97 Orchard Road – erection of 2 storey side & rear extension and single storey rear extension to dwelling P/17/0009/2: 504 Loughborough Rd – the erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 8m with a maximum height of 3.75m and height to the eaves of 2.9m. P/17/0008/2: 37 Queensgate Drive – the erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 6m with a maximum height of 3.837m and height to the eaves of 2.682m
THE BIRSTALL POST YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
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THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2017
Cancer Incidence in our Region We hope readers find it reassuring to learn that the cancer incidence within our region is slightly lower than the national average. Birstall falls within the West Leicestershire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). CCGs are clinically-led statutory NHS bodies responsible for the planning and commissioning of health care services for their local area. There are now 209 CCGs in England. Our CCG is fully authorised to plan and purchase NHS services for a population of 366,000 with a commissioning budget of £362 million. It covers three district council areas, North West Leicestershire, Charnwood, and Hinckley & Bosworth, and 50 GP practices. The cancer incidence rate in NHS West Leicestershire (577.7 per 100,000) is lower than the English average (614.8 per 100,000). More than four in ten cases of cancer could be prevented by lifestyle changes, such as not smoking, keeping a healthy body weight, cutting back on alcohol, eating a healthy balanced diet, keeping active, staying safe in the sun and others. Since 2001 the cancer incidence rate
and rate in West Leic CCG 150 per 100,000. The rate has increased by 1% per year in both England and West Leic CCG. The lifetime risk for boys born in 1990 is 5% but this will rise for boys born in 2015 to 14%. Cervical Cancer Rate in England: 9.6 per 100,000 and rate in West Leic CCG 11.3 per 100,000. The rate is stable in both England and West Leic CCG. Cervical Cancer is the most common cancer in women aged under 35. Human papilloma virus causes almost all cervical cancer. Vaccination can protest against this. It is important to ensure high vaccination rates and improve the uptake of screening. The screening uptake in West Leicestershire CCG is currently 76.2% Oesophageal Cancer Rate in England: 15.7 per 100,000 and rate in West Leic CCG 17.5 per 100,000. Smoking cause 6 or 7 out of 10 cases of oesophageal cancer. Ovarian Cancer Rate in England: 24 per 100,000 and rate in West Leic CCG 22 per 100,000. The rate is stable in both England and West Leic CCG. The risk of ovarian cancer is affected by many things including family history, reproductive history and smoking. So whilst our incidence rates are below average clearly as a community we could do more to improve this through our lifestyle choices and taking up screening opportunities. For further information: www.cancerresearchuk.org University Hospitals of Leicester Cancer Information Centre on 0116 258 6189 For more information on the funds we have raised, projects we support and forthcoming events see www.birstallbags.co.uk Contact the BAG’s by email birstallbags@hotmail.com Birstall BAG’s Registered Charity Number 1160190 Home Visiting Service Birstall BAG’s has established a Home Visiting Service in collaboration with LOROS. To support this initiative we are keen to secure more LOROS volunteers from the Birstall and surrounding area to support families in their own home in our community . If you are interested please contact Andrew Lowden andrewlowden@loros.co.uk tel 0116 2318470